The push for a more favourable match schedule must come from the players, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said on Friday, three days after his midfielder Rodri warned that players could be close to strike action over their increased workload.

Pep Guardiola admits he feels ‘so sorry’ for Martin Odegaard with the Arsenal captain set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Mikel Arteta confirmed earlier this week that his skipper’s ankle injury was ‘significant’ and it is reported that he will be in the treatment room for the next eight weeks.

Into the final year of his contract at Manchester City questions are being asked again about Pep Guardiola’s future.